Masculine Warehouse Conversion In East London

Warehouse conversions are a popular solution for live-work spaces. In a former life, this East London photographer’s pad was divided into small rooms with little natural daylight. Today it’s an exceptional example of minimal, masculine design.

Sadie Snelson Architects transformed the space by removing all walls to create an open-plan living room. Parts of the floor were removed to create double-height areas that maximise light. A mezzanine, a folded steel staircase and wall-mounted bicycle storage were added to boost both style and functionality.

The materials used throughout reflect the building’s industrial nature. Walls are left unpainted to expose the plaster finish. Structural I-beams are left exposed. The staircase is constructed from sheets of welded steel. The kitchen boasts concrete work surfaces.

The apartment’s most unique features are its wooden terrace, a rarity in the neighbourhood, and its cave-like shower made from tadelakt, a specialist waterproof plaster traditionally used to coat palaces, hammams and bathrooms in Morocco.